Sir Peter Soulsby interviewed by Prof Richard Bonney, 21 July 2003

Gives reasons for joining Labour Party, first impressions of Leicester in 1968. Describes growing awareness of issues to do with South Asian population: National Front activity, racism, Labour's attitude to this, arrival of Ugandan Asians, 1972. Discusses main issues, approaches to solutions, people involved, John Dean's role (as planning officer) in enabling places of worship to be established, role of Asian councillors, complexity of religios communities in Leicester. Mentions issues of redundant churches, proposals for places of worship at Hamilton. Discusses effect of Iraq war on 'Asian' vote, issue of 'ghetto' areas, issues with new religious buildings, reflects on his early exoeriences